1999 Audi R8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Audi R8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,596 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi R8 (610 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 443 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 1237 kg more than 1999 Audi R8.
Because 1999 Audi R8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Audi R8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Audi R8 (705 Nm) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 1999 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1999 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Audi R8 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | R8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 610 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1450 mm |
